Finding the life's purpose and putting into action. Advice I got from a public figure

We all have that one thing we quietly dream of doing someday, something that truly makes us happy. But life happens, priorities shift, and over time, that dream often takes a back seat not because it’s impossible, but because we keep telling ourselves "maybe later," again and again, until one day, it’s simply forgotten.

I love talking about dreams and passions with people of all ages. I enjoy listening to their stories, and I truly admire those who chase their dreams. But what hurts me is seeing how many people get so caught up in chasing money or stability that they gradually lose touch with what truly fulfills them.

Chasing money isn’t wrong, it does make life easier. But for many, it’s not just about the money. People get busy with jobs, chasing promotions, climbing the corporate ladder, and somewhere along the way, they barely have time to rest, let alone pursue their passions. Without realizing it, they stop making time for the things they once dreamed of doing!

Here’s a common dilemma: Imagine you are passionate about becoming a writer and dream of publishing a book. But writing takes time. It could take months to write, years to publish, and even longer to gain recognition. Meanwhile, you get an offer for a new job that requires your full attention and leaves little room for anything else. What do you choose?

If this has already happened to you, what did you pick: passion or a new job opportunity? And if you chose the job, let me ask you this: do you still think about writing that book?  Did you manage to squeeze in some time for it? Or did you tell yourself “someday”… and that day still hasn’t come?

I have seen so many people caught in the “maybe someday” trap, not because they gave up on their dreams, but because life just kept getting busier. Some never found the right time to start, and others are still trying to figure out where to begin. And back then, I honestly didn’t know what to say to them until I met Mr. Hans Ulrich Obrist at Mercedes-Benz’s me Convention in 2017 in Frankfurt..

Mr Hans Ulrich Obrist at me Convention, Frankfurt in 2017

Mr. Obrist is an author, historian, and art curator (among many other things). I asked him the same question: writer or high-paying job? His answer was straightforward, yet thought-provoking:

“In that case, do two things; one should bring you money, and the other should bring you happiness. There are many ways to make money with your obsession. Find them. Many people have done that.”

At first, it sounded simple, but the examples he shared completely changed how I understood his suggestion. He even shared a story about someone (I don’t remember the name) who worked on his passion after a boring day job, and eventually became a successful author.

That's how he explained it! (And his autograph at the bottom) 

I remember a chapter I read in the book Rework, a must-read for every startup enthusiast. It says, “Squeeze a little time every day and work on what you love.” I’m sharing that chapter here. Take a moment to read it; it’s simple, but powerful.

Another great takeaway from that chapter, one I had highlighted, is a simple approach to finding your true passion through quick trial and error. Doesn’t that sound like a surprisingly simple solution to an incredibly complex problem?

I know life gets busy. And I get it, chasing your dream can feel overwhelming or unrealistic. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to do it all at once. Just start small. Adjust it to fit your life right now. Give it a bit time for your dreams. You will be surprised at how quickly momentum builds when you simply begin. 

Imagine the positive impact even a small step can have, how it can change the world, or at least make a meaningful difference to those who benefit from it.

Humour with a deep message! Found this at a youth hostel in Genova, Italy

“You will never be a guilt escape from your heart. So it's better to listen to what it has to say. That way, you'll never have to fear an unanticipated blow.” 

― Paulo Coelho The Alchemist